Diet

Holiday Cocktails for the Hostess Who Hates to Cook

Spare your guests the food coma and provide holiday cheer in liquid form instead

by Allie Flinn | 4 COMMENTS

PHOTO 5/10

When You Realize You're Out of That Bakery-Bought Pie and Guests Are Clamoring for Dessert We know we promised that there would be no cooking, but this recipe is as easy as boiling water (you can do that much, right?). According to del Mar Sacasa, the Nutella melts effortlessly into the milk -- and if we have the culinary ability to make this, we're sure you do as well. The nutty flavor is enhanced with hazelnut liqueur and a garnish of toasted coconut, while the salt and espresso add sophistication (and keep it from being too tooth-achingly sweet).

Nutella Melt
Yields One Cocktail
Ingredients:
4 cups whole milk
¼ cup Nutella
Pinch salt
6 ounces hazelnut liqueur, such as Frangelico
1 cup heavy cream, chilled
¼ cup confectioners' sugar
2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
¼ cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped, for garnish
Toasted coconut flakes, for garnish

Bring milk, Nutella, and salt to a simmer in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring until Nutella is completely dissolved. Stir in liqueur. Turn off the heat but leave the pot on the stove while you whip up the cream.

Using an electric mixer, beat cream, confectioners' sugar, and espresso powder on medium speed in a large, chilled bowl until soft peaks form, 2 to 3 minutes. (Alternately, beat by hand using a large wire whisk). Ladle drink into warm cups and top with whipped cream. Sprinkle with hazelnuts and coconut.

Excerpted with permission from "Winter Cocktails: Mulled Ciders, Hot Toddies, Punches, Pitchers, and Cocktail Party Snacks"
By Maria del Mar Sacasa
Quirk Books, $22.95, www.quirkbooks.com
Photo Credit: Photography by Tara Striano

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